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Beating the tough time with the courage and patience is an actual bravery. People who do not despair in the hard times and remain focused have remarkable qualities. Indeed when tough challenges hit, it either define you or destroy you. But good thing is hardships does help us to value the ease.

Today, I like to share few incidents from the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to highlight how he acted during distressful circumstances. So that it help you to stay positive and keep your spirits high insha’Allah.

Be with me!

Abu Talib’s Death

It was the 10th year of Prophethood. Things in Makkah were returning to normal after the long social economical boycott of Banu Hashim. Historians report that the Quresh instated a stifling boycott on muslims for approximately three years in Makkah. Only when this confinement ended, muslims took a sigh of relief.

Prophet’s uncle and his caretaker Abu Talib suffered heavily through this trial and got ill. He was 70 years old. The hardships of the siege had weakened his health. The Makkans took it as an opportunity to speak about Muhammad ﷺ. In his last moments, some notables from Quresh like Abu Jahl and Abdullah bin Abi Umayyah visited him. They were well aware of the bond between the Prophet ﷺ and his uncle. They were hoping that the Prophet would listen to his uncle’s dying wishes but no settlement occurred among them. The leaders were reluctant to accept Islam and Prophet ﷺ was clear in his beliefs. The Prophet ﷺ tried that they embrace Islam and persuaded Abu Talib till his last breath.

“My uncle, just make a profession that there is no true god but Allah, and I will bear testimony before Allâh (of your being a believer)”. (Al-Mubarakpuri, 2003)

Sorrowfully, he insisted on his ancestors’ faith and eventually died in the state of disbelief. One can only imagine the grief of Prophet ﷺ not only for his loss, but also on Abu Talib’s denial of the truth. Out of the deep emotions, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ remarked:

“By Allah, I will persistently beg pardon for you till I am forbidden to do so (by Allah)”. (Al-Mubarakpuri, 2003)

It was then that this verse was revealed in Quran (9:113):

“It is not (proper) for the Prophet and those who believe to ask Allah’s forgiveness for the Mushrikeen (polytheists, idolaters, pagans, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allah) even though they be of kin, after it has become clear to them that they are the dwellers of the Fire (because they died in a state of disbelief).”

And it was said to the Prophet ﷺ:

“ Verily! You [O Muhammad ﷺ] guide not whom you like.” (Quran, 28:56)

Nevertheless, Abu Talib was the tower of defense against the arrogant Quresh. He did not let Quresh “isolate” Prophet ﷺ. Everyone knew his death meant the loss of political protection for his nephew and for Muslims. It was a 40-year long selfless relationship, the love and care he showed to Prophet ﷺ and Muslims is admirable.

Shortly after, Abu Lahab became the chief of Abu Talib’s tribe whose hatred and enmity towards believers was not hidden from anyone. Initially he abided by the wishes of the clan in protecting Muhammadﷺ, but quickly reverted to his former enmity. With this development, the persecution, insult and disrespect of the messenger by people of the city reached to a higher level. There were many disgraceful, unprovoked acts that Prophet ﷺ patiently endured in this difficult time. Regardless, he continued his mission and kept calling people to the oneness of Allah.

Khadija’s R.A Death

Just two months after the death of his uncle, another calamity struck the Prophet. His beloved companion, loving wife, and mother of his children, Khadijah R.A passed away. Sadly, this time Prophet ﷺ lost the central pillar of his household, the love of his life. His internal strength was stricken with this trial. For 25 years, they shared companionship of each other. She was 65 years old at the time of her death and Prophet ﷺ was 50. These were the gloomy, grim days for the family of the Messenger. Khadija bint Khuwaylid was the first lady to believe in his dawah and stood bravely by him in all-critical situations. His spiritual companion with a pure heart, mind and soul who always comforted his agony was gone. She was his best person, who used to alleviate his sufferings and always raise his morale. May Allah SWT be pleased with her; and may He reward her best recompense. Ameen

Conclusion

Allah SWT exemplifies Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for the whole mankind. So as a result, the important part is to learn from his life and character.

His trials and difficulties were not small, but even at that time, he did not forget to trust Allah SWT. As Allah the Almighty revealed these verses:

“And rely upon the Ever-Living who does not die, and exalt [Allah] with His praise. And sufficient is He to be, with the sins of His servants, Acquainted” (Quran, 25:58)

Optimism is the key to handle odd situations. Prophet’s life is a proof that he was a fountain of optimism. No matter, how grief struck him, how heart-broken Prophet ﷺ was from the behavior of enemies, he did not discontinue his mission.

Prophet ﷺ endured the loss of his beloved ones with utmost patience. As he knew Allah SWT says in the Quran:

“And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient”. (Quran, 2:155)

Because of these and similar incidents, no one could assert that Islam succeeded with the help of a particular person, but rather it was due to Allah’s help and protection as He is the best Disposer of all affairs.

Thus, as believers, we should remain patient and submissive in all conditions with the decree and commandments of Allah SWT, no matter how difficult things are, no matter who comes in and goes away from our lives, we should always remember and affirm with our tongue and heart by saying,

“… Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.” (Quran, 2:156)

According to the majority of scholars: “It is obligatory on an immediate basis and whoever delays it to another year is a sinner, for if he dies, he will be held accountable for this, if Allah does not forgive him.”

Don’t try to impress others. “What will my friends or family think”? Don’t care, priorities of a practicing Muslim is always different. Most important is “to please your Lord”.

Keep in mind, one day we have to stand in front of Him, none will be with us (nor our parents neither our children), none will save us from the trials of that day, none will be answerable to our actions.

We make Halal difficult by tagging it with all luxuries “Dil kai Armaan“, and Halal action becomes Prohibited version. The way of Shaitan that he commands.

Simple example, our weddings, muslims weddings. A very Sad reality of the day. Start with all kind of extravagance, a long shopping list of clothing, functions, guest list, food, then comes bridal grooming. Unfortunately, mothers and sisters, we all don’t realize, why we are paying big amounts of makeovers, hairdo. Women can only adorn herself for her Mahram. But before husband sees, we provide complete entertainment at our cost to all guests, including the person who we hire for PHOTOSHOOT.

Yes, he and his teams see from all angles to the beauty of the bride, isn’t shameful? By this, are we going to seek barakah in this marriage? then some of us come up with the idea of Halal Photoshoot. Female photographer, subhanAllah. Like we know that she ‘ll provide us complete BA_PARDA process. Quran says:

“…Satan has made their deeds pleasing to them and averted them from [His] way, so they are not guided” (Surah An-Naml: 24)

It’s not only about the bride, grooms are also sitting in the same row. They ‘ll avoid gold ring (haram in Islam to wear gold) or silky dress but proudly take the dowry or spend extravagance for the sake of happiness of their bride. The decoration of stage, diamond rings, expensive dress, a vehicle for the wedding, honeymoon plans, and the list goes on.

There is so much to address and practical actions are required for every individual to take. We Ummah is in real bad condition, probably similar or worse than the time of Jahiliyyah!

If you agree what I said, change something in your life and replace it with exact Sunnah of Prophet ﷺ.

“Mama some ladies are on the door, they need to talk to you,” my son called me.

They were two middle-aged ladies. After greeting, they handed me a book and asked me do I pray. I said yes, we pray five times a day. They further asked me about names of God. I said yes there are 99 names of Allah. There is only one God Allah. I said in response to some of their comments. These were some Hindu Missionaries trying to persuade their belief of God as a Father. This non-Profit organization was inviting for Yoga, which is an exercise during which some names are practiced for self-contentment and relief from worldly worries. The conversation started when it was emphasized to convince God is like a father.

Me: God is only one and He is the Creator of all creatures. He is not son or father of anyone as some sets consider Isa (alahi salam) as a son of God.

Indeed, the example of Jesus to Allah is like that of Adam. He created Him from dust; then He said to him, “Be,” and he was. (Surah Al-Imran: 59)

So do not assert similarities to Allah. Indeed, Allah knows and you do not know. (Surah An-Nahl: 74)

Missionary: Oh yes that’s not right considering someone son of God but God is like Father. Me: God is only one. He is the Creator of all creature, He is not son or father of anyone and for Allah is the highest attribute. And He is Exalted in Might, the Wise [1]

Missionary: Yes, this is true that He has no son but He is the Father of all creatures.

Me: Ok see this is my daughter (I pointed to my 6-year-old daughter standing beside me). I eat and she as well. I sleep and she needs to sleep too. She is like me. Kids are like their parents. God does not need anyone for support. He is independent. He does not eat or sleep as we do.

Allah – there is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of [all] existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. (Surah Al-Baqara-255)

Missionary: Yes but we do have minute characteristics like God.

Me: Yes that’s right. For example one of the names of God is Ar-Raheem. He is most Merciful. He placed mercy in our hearts too. He is all giving Al-Wahhab. We humans do have these attributes too.

There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the Hearing, the Seeing.

(Surah Al-Shu’ra: 11)

Missionary: Still he is like a father. I don’t have parents (One of them said). He is like the father for me. I rely on him for everything.

Me: That’s right, He takes care of us. He provides us but He doesn’t like to be named as the father. We are humans only His creatures. Let’s see this example if there is some celebrity, he has a sweeper, would he like to be related with his sweeper.

Allah presents an example: a slave [who is] owned and unable to do a thing and he to whom We have provided from Us good provision, so he spends from it secretly and publicly. Can they be equal? Praise to Allah ! But most of them do not know. (Surah An-Nahal: 76)

Missionary: (with some uncertainty)…we are only humans, we are like that but God is more than that. (A bit hesitation in saying) but we have some attributes of God. (The other lady said).

Me: If I make a car or Vase, I am the maker of that car. How can I be similar like my manufacture? God made Adam the father of all humans from dust. First, He made his structure then he blew his “spirit “ in that structure.

Who perfected everything which He created and began the creation of man from clay. Then He made his posterity out of the extract of a liquid disdained. Then He proportioned him and breathed into him from His [created] soul and made for you hearing and vision and hearts; little are you grateful.

(Surah As-Sajda: 7-9)

Missionary: So see He blew his spirit in humans…(smiling)

Me: Yes but that was to honor humans. Think about fish. It means Fish has a father too… Missionary: No answer, (but surprised expression)!!

Me: God loves his creature. He provides his creature but He does not like to be associated with His creation such as to be called as He has a son or to be called as a father. If people call Him father out of love, it’s against respect. This allowed people to add others to him. If you Google and see the translation of Chapter Al-Ikhlas of Quran.It explains how God is only one and has not born or nor given birth to anyone.

Missionary: Yes I will do. We are a non-profit organization. We also take in-kind donations for shelter homes. Would you like to give something?

Me: For now I have lots of Apples at home. Would you like to take apples…(I smiled) Missionary: Yes sure.

I gave them a bag of Apple.

Missionary: Oh they are a lot, are you sure (said with bliss and surprise)

Me: Yes of course (smile)

Missionary: Oh thanks a lot. I can’t resist myself giving you another book. What is your good name? (She said in very delight manner and handed me book).

Me: I took the book and said thanks. I also invited them to come in for tea. But they wanted to go to next door.

Our conversation ended up opening a broader understanding of Islam. Things become even more vibrant when paralleled with reverse. It seemed as a message was conveyed and will sure set in hearts because Truth has its own distinctive light. Once it lits up, it illuminates the surrounding at Once.

If some sets consider eccentric names as the name of God and exercise those names and invite others as well. We must aware, Allah SWT has beautiful names. He himself encourages us to call upon him with these names.

And to Allah belong the best names, so invoke Him by them. And leave [the company of] those who practice deviation concerning His names. They will be recompensed for what they have been doing.

(Surah Nuh: 180)

There are now literally tens of forms of yoga, which range from the overtly religious/ spiritual to the entirely secular (only physical exercises, no intoning of Sanskrit chants and such). The most common form is physical, where the focus is on breathing patterns, flexibility, and general health.

In this case, Yoga is placed under the category of mu’aamalaat (general actions) rather than that of ‘ebaadah (worship). Thus, the principle of everything is permissible until proven otherwise kicks into play.

If someone invites to Yoga for spiritual enhancement, be cautious if they are saying some peculiar names during this exercise. They consider these strange names as names of God and consider them as a source of inner tranquility and harmony.
Quran is a marvelous book of Allah SWT. This Book is a source of guidance and light to lighten up our trails in this world. We must have this supplication in our routine to shield our faith from deceptions and illusions.

Khadija bint Khuwalid(RA) is the name of Noble Lady who is famous for intelligence, wealth, humbleness, and for her love and devotion to her Husband Prophet Mohammadﷺ She stands on the highest place when it comes to the Foundation of Islam. Khadija Bint Khuwalid was the greatest Support, being a First Person and First women to accept Islam. She was also the First wife of Prophet Mohammadﷺ who gained an honorable Title of Umm-Al-Momineen (The Mother of Believers). She stands as a Role Model for Women in this age and Time due to her well-organized, educated, and simple personality, elegance, confidence were her trademarks. She was strong enough to support her family economically, emotionally and being a housewife, she took good care of her Husband and Children.

Khadija bint Khuwalid was also famous as Ammerat­-Quraysh (the Princess of Quraysh) and Khadija Al­-Kubra (Khadija “The Great) due to her prodigious success in business and generous attitude towards needy and poor in Makkah. She was also renowned as Al­-Tahira(the Pure One) due to her Noble and Modest Personality.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ entitled Khadija bint Khuwalid R.A by saying

“Maryam the Daughter of Imran, was the best among the women (of the world of her time) and Khadija is the best among the women of (this nation).”

(Sahih Bukhari, Book 58­ Hadith 164)

Her Family:

Khadija Bint Khuwalid RA was born in Makkah. Her Mother name was Fatima Bint Zayd and her Father was Khuwalid bin Asad. He was a famous leader among the tribes of Quraysh and a successful Businessman.

Khadija Bint Khuwalid married Abu Hala Malak and had two Sons Halah and Hind. After her first Husband died, She married Atique bin Aith and had a daughter Hindah. Her second Husband also died shortly after. She then started focusing towards raising her children and nourishing her business in Makkah which embarked on the highest scale due to her hard work , intelligence and wisdom blessed from Allah SWT.

Khadija Bint Khuwalid as a successful Business Woman:

She was a role model for women in the Desert of Arabia where there was no educational institute for business and accounting to perform well in the Field of Merchandise.

In Arabia, women had no social status and were treated as a minority and slaves. At a time when people buried their infant daughters, her parents gave her confidence to build her character and encouraged her skills so that she inherited her Father’s Business. Eventually, managed it to grow and attained prominence in Makkah using some wise techniques of business.

This wise lady employed trade agents to travel with her caravans and trade on her behalf. These agents received commissions as per their sales upon their return from trips.

It is said that when Banu Quraysh’s trade caravans gathered to embark on their lengthy journey either to Syria during the Summer or Yamen in the winter, Khadija’s Caravan equaled the Caravans of all Quraish put together.

Her wise and pure-mannered personality attracted Noble rich of society to propose her for marriage. But it seemed that her previous marriage experiences made her refuse to agree to any of the proposals. Her pre-occupation with her business and other obligations might also have been another reason for her refusal of these proposals. She remained unmarried until she got older and approached the age of forty.

The popularity of the name of the Trustworthy (Mohammad) ﷺ who was a model of good conduct reached her. Khadija Bint Khuwalid had keen observational skills in choosing wise and intelligent employee for her business. She decided to hire Prophet Mohammad ﷺ as a trade agent for her next Business trip to Syria.

What she heard from her servant, Maysarah regarding Mohammad’s excellent manners in buying and selling and how he made big profits, created in her a great interest in him. This led her to send someone to him to indirectly express her interest in marrying him.

Marriage with Prophet ﷺ :

The marriage took place between her and Muhammad ﷺ and both were delighted because of the same conducts they shared and their hearts also shared the same feeling. Their marriage is enough to break stereotypes about Islam, it might intrigue you to know that she was 40 years old when she married Prophet ﷺ who was just 25.

If we look with Khadijah’s (may Allah be pleased with her) perspective, it is clear that she preferred uprightness and noble integrity to the wealth. It enlightens Khadija’s insight that Allah SWT had blessed her for all affairs.

As A Wife:

“Your wives are a garment for you, and you are a garment for them.”

(Surah Baqarah:187)

In Arab culture, taking multiple wives was a common practice, yet Khadija and Mohammad’s ﷺ marriage was monogamous until her death 25 years later. Mohammad’s prophethood began during his marriage to Khadija, when he received the first of Allah’s revelations through the Angel Gabriel that left him frightened, strained and feeling alone when no one believed in him. Khadija comforted her husband and encouraged him during the most difficult days of his life. Her kind words acted like a soothing rain on Prophet’s ﷺ heart which made him relaxed and calm. She said ,

“Never! By God, God will never disgrace you. You keep good relations with your relatives, help the poor, serve your guests generously, and assist those hit with calamities.”

(Sahih Al-Bukhari)

She was an intelligent lady. She recognized her Husband was not an ordinary man, he possesses some special characteristics. Since he does not harm others and instead keeps a soft heart for Humanity. Allah will suffice him. She had an unforgettable place in Prophet’s life even after her death. She had very soft and loving heart for her Husband.

Aisha (RA) reported that once she hurt Prophet’s feelings on this issue but He ﷺ replied:

” Allah (SWT) has blessed me with her (Khadijah (RA)) love”.

As A Mother:

Khadijah RA bore him 6 children. She had two sons Al-­Qasim and Abdullah. Both died in infant age. Later they were blessed with four Daughters successively Zaynab, Ruqayyah, Umm­e­ Kulthoom and Fatima (may Allah SWT Pleased with them all). In everyday life, parents commonly put their efforts to raise children to attain worldly rewards.Khadija Bint Khuwalid raised her daughters in such manners as they ranked among the best women. In an hadith , Prophet Mohammad mentioned the rank of Fatima (RA) among ladies with the highest status than others dues to their piety and modesty.These are historical words about Khadija Bint Khuwalid and her daughter Fatima (RA), Prophet Mohammad ﷺ once said,

Best Supporter in the time of trial:

During harsh times, Khadijah remained a loyal and patient companion and wife, often giving Mohammad ﷺ wise and compassionate counsel, which reinforced him emotionally. Her support would constantly strengthen him in his mission to spread the Message.
For three years the small Muslim community lived in exile, cut off from their kith and kin and enduring a life of hardship and deprivation. However, although they suffered from hunger and thirst, and from exposure to the elements, this was a time in which the hearts of the first Muslims were both purified and also filled with the light of knowledge and wisdom. The Muslims knew that they were following the truth, and so nothing else mattered. Sadly, these long and difficult months left Khadijah physically weakened.
Finally, the boycott was lifted and the Muslims were allowed to re-enter the city; but the three years of hardship had taken their toll on her health. She spent her last days in the loving care of her husband and daughters. Here was one of the wealthiest women in the Arabian Peninsula, who had spent all she had of her material wealth in the path of Allah that she did not even have a piece of bread in her house when she died.

In some narrations, it was said that in the final moments of her life, angel Jibreel AS descended, giving her (through the Messenger ﷺ) greetings from Allah Himself, with the glad tidings of her palace in Jannah.

Why was she so exalted and elevated in the eyes of Allah SWT?

Let us pause and take a look at our lives today. The husband and wife keep careful count of their spending, and very few women would willingly give up their wealth in supporting their husbands’ noble causes. How many women would be willing to sacrifice personal luxuries for a higher cause?

Khadijah went further than sacrificing her material comforts; she gave all that she had in the path of Allah. Instead of complaining about the hardship of her situation, she supported her husband. She did not demand gifts, vacations, or even attention; for she knew that she had a higher cause than to indulge in the mere trivialities of the world. She put the needs of her husband above her personal needs for the sake of Allah, and as a result, the Prophet’s ﷺ love and admiration for her overshadowed those that he bore for the wives that he married after her death. He loved no one more than Khadija during his lifetime. A true friend is one who stands with one in the times of turmoil and afflictions. Khadija RA was there with him in these times with full eagerness and love. Theirs was a true love story.

On one occasion Aisha (RA) asked him ﷺ if she had been the only woman worthy of his love and the Prophet ﷺ replied:

“She believed in me when no body else did, she embraced Islam when people disbelieved me and she helped and comforted me when there was none to lend me a helping hand”.

We wish for the glory of having her as our companion in Jannah, but how many of us have the sincerity to emulate her exemplary behavior and sacrifice even a fraction of what she did for Islam, financially, physically and emotionally?

Khadija RA continues to inspire people to this day who admire her for taking great care of the Prophet of Islam and for showing the world, through her behavior, what a pious, modest and courageous woman can accomplish. The example she left for mankind remains timeless.

May Allah SWT shower His blessings on her and grant us courage and Faith to follow her footsteps. Ameen

“The Wives of the Prophet (peace and Blessings of Allaah Be upon Him), the Mothers of the Believers (may Allaah Be Pleased with Them) – Islamqa.info.” The Wives of the Prophet (peace and Blessings of Allaah Be upon Him), the Mothers of the Believers (may Allaah Be Pleased with Them)

Muslim narrated via the way of Abu Hurayra “that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:

‘Do you know who the muflis (bankrupt) is?’ They said: ‘The muflis among us is the one without a dirham (or money).’ He ﷺ said: ‘The muflis in my Ummah is the one who comes on the Day of Judgement with prayer, fasting and zakat. He comes but has insulted so and so, falsely accused so and so, eaten someone’s wealth, spilt some one’s blood and struck someone. His good deeds are given to them. If his good deeds finish before that which is upon him, is not paid off, the sins of those whom he hurt are transferred into his account. Then he is thrown into the Fire.”

Bankruptcy in this life cannot be compared to bankruptcy at the Day of Judgment. Bankruptcy in this life might be overcome in some way or another. But on the Day of Judgment, the criteria for bankruptcy are completely different. On that day, all accounts have to be settled evenly and fairly. No one will help and no one will be helped; everyone is concerned only with his own self.

“When we come to a conference without a notebook we are saying to Allah: we don’t CARE how much access you give us [to knowledge].” – Dr. Altaf Hussain‪‬

I remember going to events and seeing people take notes and not seeing the point of it. It’s not a school. It’s a fun thing to do, listen to lectures and hearing jokes.

But our brains aren’t made that way to retain information like that. I used to just feel good about a lecture and feel like wow, that blew my mind. Awesome. And I’d come home to tell my mom about it but I would mess up all the points and forget the details and end up just saying: you had to be there!

We forget that these lectures are a luxury. And we are going to be held accountable.

There’s an ayah in Surah Taha where Allah raises someone up on the Day of Judgement blind. And they ask Him why. And Allah says, my signs came to you and you ignored them, so today you will be ignored.

You are all students of knowledge – regardless of if you are enrolled in seminars and Islamic classes or just go to a lecture here and there. You need to value that knowledge. Allah gave you youtube, Allah gave you MSA and Halaqas and masjid events and organization conferences. You do not need to travel far for knowledge.

But what good is it if it goes in one ear and out the other.

And notes aren’t to have a collection of journals filled with things. Notes are for review. Strengthening your knowledge.

Tirmidhi relates a hadith from Abu Umama that the Prophet ﷺ said,

“Indeed, Allah, the angels, the denizens of the heavens of the earth, the ants in their burrows, and the fish in the sea pray for blessings to come upon those who teach good to people.”

Tabarani relates from Jabir that the Prophet ﷺ said,

“Everything, even the fish in the sea, seeks forgiveness for one who enlightens the people.”

Once Allah has given you knowledge, it is incumbent upon you to hold onto it and act upon it and then share it.

And don’t say you don’t have time. If other people can find barakah in their time, you can too. It’s just a matter of prioritizing. And if you really loved Allah, you’d make time for Him. You would.

So, study.
Because this is the exam.
The questions come at the end.
And it’s all cumulative.

There are Duas in Quran and Hadith that one can make in the days and nights of Ramadan and Laila-tul-Qadr. However, these Du’as are not restricted to be made only in Ramadan. As always, one can make Dua at anytime of the year.

For your convenience, here i have few examples of personal, relevant Duas you can make in these remaining days of Ramadan, Insha Allah. It would be ideal to print this list (or have it on your phone) and keep it handy. Likewise, please add to your list anything else that you would like, especially that which your heart desires.

Ya Rahman, Ya Raheem, Ya Rabb al Alameen.

1. Oh Allah, please forgive me for all of the bad that I’ve done, and I continue to do. You are so Merciful and kind, please forgive me, and help me stay away from all that’s wrong.Ya Afu, Forgive the sins that I don’t remember and the sins that I didn’t even consider as sins. It’s so hard for me, and I’m so weak but You are the Strong. Please increase me in sincerity.

2. Oh Allah, I beg You, please guide my parents and siblings toward You. Do not let them die without realizing who their Lord is. Let them see the truth and help them resist the pressure of friends who try to turn them away from You. Ya Allah, you are Al Ghaffaar. Forgive them, and grant them good health. Ya Rahman, me a sadaqa jariyah for my parents. Ya Allah Reward them in the greatest measures in this dunya & akhirah. Ya Allah Elevate their ranks and grant them Jannah al Firdaus.Ya Allah Make me coolness of their eyes in their old age.

4. Oh Allah, make every single aspect of my life be for You and in service of Your Creation. Please remove all false intentions that I have. Ya Allah Remove the love of this world in its degrees & forms from my heart.

5. Ya Wahab, Grant me death with the shahadah on my tongue. Expand my grave for me and illuminate it with light. Preserve my record in Illiyeen and Lighten for me the questioning of the grave, Ya Kareem, Grant me death in a state of Ibadah, resurrect me in the same state and my Rabb, please keep me free from fear, anxiety and terror of the Day of Judgment.

6. Oh Allah, Grant my book in my right hand, make me among those who show their books to others with happiness. Make me successful in the Meezan.

7. Ya Allah, let me love You as You deserved to be loved, and let me fear You as You deserve to be feared, and let me leave this world serving Your creation for Your sake.

8. Oh Allah, increase me in beneficial knowledge, but let this knowledge be with sincerity, not seeking fame, glory, status, material wealth. Let this knowledge serve Your cause in a way that You accept, and let it benefit humanity. Oh Allah, guide me to seek this blessed Deen (religion) from those who are sincere, who possess the correct Islamic knowledge, who are moderate and gentle, who are not harsh or impatient with me, and who understand where I’m coming from, my situation as a Muslim in this country, living in this world today.

9. Oh Allah, bless our scholars and leaders who are striving to establish Islam in this world on the balanced path of Your beloved Prophet. O Allah, bless all of those who have taught me about You and Islam.

10. Oh Allah, give me the ability to forgive all those who have hurt me in word and deed and please Oh Allah, join our hearts.

11. Oh Allah, please guide my children and all children. Protect them my Lord from all of the evil influences that are around them. Give them friends who will strengthen their faith and help them stay on the Straight Path. Ya Allah Save our children from the impact of our mistakes in their lives. Ya Allah, assist us with physical & emotional strength to be a good parents & example to our children. Ya Allah Make our children the coolness of our eyes and make them sawaab-e-jaariya for me & my spouse.

12. Ya Allah Protect our children from harm, sicknesses, disbelief, haraam and destruction. Ya Rabb, Grant our children success in Deen, duniya & Aakhirah & grant us a lineage of righteous offspring until Yawm al Qiyaamah. Ya Allah Make them of those who establish Salah and prostrate only to you.

14. Oh Allah, please grant my family/friends who are waiting for the gift of “children”.. Please grant them Saleh children who will grow up to be a source of Mercy for them.

15. Oh Allah, please help me stay away from Haram in achieving the best of this world.

16. Oh Allah, guide and protect our teenagers who need Your Help and Guidance from all of the temptations of sex, drugs, alcohol and all of the other Harams in our society.
17. Ya Allah Give me the strength to be steadfast throughout the trials I encounter. Oh Allah, don’t let me ever turn away from You, no matter how many trials and difficulties You test me with.

24. Ya Allah Grant me a soft heart & content with Your Laws. Ya Allah Make the Quran be my companion in both worlds.Ya Allah Guide me to the siraat mustaqeem until my last breath, never be deviated in shirk, kufr or bid’ah. Ya Qaadiru, Make me among the muhsineen, muttaqeen, mukhliseen, the sabiqoon fil ilm.

25. Ya Allah Favour me with the ability to do tazkiyah of my soul throughout my life journey.

26. Oh Allah, please get my (father/brother/husband/ name of any person) out of this horrible debt that is burdening him. Please give him means that are to get out of this as soon as possible, so that we can face You on the Day of Judgment free of all debts.
27. Oh Allah, open a way for brothers/sisters to marry as soon as possible. Let them marry who is sincere and devoted to You and who is compatible with them.

28. Oh Allah, cleanse my heart of the sicknesses of arrogance, malice, jealousy, hatred, self-admiration, show off, envy and pride and let me die as one of the sincere, humble Muslims.

29. Oh Allah, open a way for me to make Hajj and umrah with my family again and again.

30. Oh Allah, all of my brothers and sisters who are suffering for Your sake through torture, violence, in jails, etc., around the world please forgive their sins and grant them Paradise. Oh Allah, help orphans and poor wherever they are and Forgive the Muslim ummah -the living and the dead. Bless the Muslims. Grant victory to the oppressed. Fill their hearts with Eman. Ya Qawiu, Ya Azizo, Bring the downfall of those (modern day pharaohs) oppressors & Relieve those who are deprived, burdened, oppressed, in debt. Ya Allah Protect my brothers & sisters across the warzones & from the persecution, rape, slaughter, humiliation.

36. Ya Allah Grant me the Shade of your Arsh on Yawmul Qiyaamah. Ya Allah Give me my record of deeds in my right hand and make my mizaan (scale) heavy with the good deeds.

37. Oh Allah, make us amongst the Sabiqoon as mentioned in Surah Al Waqiyah also make us worthy so we will drink water from the fountain of Al Kauthar from Prophet’s ﷺ hands on Day of Judgment.

38. Ya Allah Ease my crossing of the Siraat & Qantarah (bridges before Paradise) with the speed of light and more.

39. Oh Allah, lift the veils from the eyes of those who have been deceived into seeing Islam as something bad because of ignorance and media stereotypes.

40. Oh Allah, bring all humans closer to You and each other. Please do not make us Muslims a test for them with our misrepresentation of Islam because of our bad behavior. Oh Allah, save humanity from being its own enemy. Protect Your creation from oppression.

“O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to bring down over themselves [part] of their outer garments. That is more suitable that they will be known and not be abused. And ever is Allah Forgiving and Merciful.”

It could be the hardest decision any muslimah take in her life. When I came across this ayah, i read and listened different Tafaseer of scholars, related to this ayah, searched about the dress code, looked into my closest with the critical eye whether I have modest dresses that could save me from wearing another layer over it. How and when I can avoid this 2nd layer. You can say I was trying to avoid as much I can. For few days I didn’t go out just to make sure, as I wasn’t ready to wear it. My nafs was complaining and saying it’s a burden, you are already wearing a hijab, you don’t use any cosmetic, you don’t do this and that, so you are not attractive for na-mahram and you are not showing off your self. In short, I was doing all excuses I can, and was battling, as my inner was not convinced with my logics because it is command of Allah and it is said to all believing women. How come I could segregate myself from this honor? My heart won the fight, and I started wearing it alhamdulilah.

But today, an amazing incident happened, I was coming out of Doctor’s clinic, one lady who was sitting at the distance, praised my black abaya by saying it’s so pretty hijab (for a moment I thought she is talking about my headscarf) so I went back and thanked her, she started conversation regarding the fabric, clothing, Islamic dress code, etc. when I saw her interest in islam, i took this as an opportunity and politely explain few concepts. She was telling how ill she is, and facing issues. Then, she told about her experience of visiting masjid in our area. I felt that she is pursuing real truth; as she told me her interest in listening of bilblical verses, and she also liked to go to church; similarly join other activities of different religions. Then she asked about the status of women in islam, as her own observation and knowledge was that muslim women are oppressed and doesn’t have more freedom.

To sum up, all that happens just because of my outer garment, subhanAllah. I am grateful that Allah swt has guided me towards the right decision and my garment became source of dawah. To me hijab and jilbab affect people in our surrounding in positive manner. I have interacted more people in last couple of days because of it. They are more interested to know why a Muslimah prefer to wear it, how much we are comfortable with it etc.

I am still progressing to better myself, it might be tough sometimes, but I know as with any journey, it takes time, dedication and commitment to fully love and appreciate what you do for the sake of Allah.

My idea of writing this post, is to comfort my sisters that their struggle is for good reason, and we are doing dawah by wearing an ayah. So keep going, inshAllah a big reward is waiting for us and you are an inspiration for others, none knows when our modesty ll turn anyone towards Allah swt.

If you like this post, please do share your experiences in the comments.

It’s the story of every muslim, who is looking to achieve big goal after the life, that is JANNAH TUL FIRDOUS and WAJHI’ILAH. The life of dunya is like a set journey, it’s like a game, when you attain one level, another level unlocked for you. But if you stuck in one phase, the other level ll remain a mystery. But unlikely the struggle in the initial phase is more, once your aptitude is built, you’ll have better opportunities to face hardships of next level in skillful manner. I ll discuss first part of this journey related to dunya (world) while in other part insha’Allah ll look with the perspective of consequences of actions in hereafter (akhirah).

The Quran, divine book of muslims, is an ultimate guidance, you should keep it with you all time. It explains what to do and what not to do, to remain on track. Also, it explains what ll come in your way, when you ll be trying to attain a badge or an award.

The journey begins with the dua that may Allah swt be your Helper and ask His aid in every aspect. It shows don’t underestimate the challenges, what is in front of you is surely not easy. So, keep your weapon of dua ready all time. And don’t forget, you are seeking assistance of the Al-Mighty, the Most Powerful. Then there are some don’ts and do’s. If you are looking to score high in the end, you need to struggle hard and don’t miss any award or bonus coming in your way. It’s very challenging, at every corner, you’ll experience distractions that will mislead you from your target. When you’ll start this game, maybe you would be struggling to become a conscious muslim but by the end you ll be a Momin who’ll have titles of Sabir, Tahir, Taw’wab, Muttaqi, Muhsin and list goes on.

However, some of the qualities or titles would already present in you. But for few you would require extra time and inner strength. Each chapter of the Quran ll give you practical and moral tips to ease your struggle. It ll also explain past stories of other participants (nations) who attempted it, some were failures and some were high scorers. Those who didn’t follow the rules have faced the consequences in this dunya but in spite of that, they’ll confront bigger punishments on the day of resurrection. Similarly those who scored high in this dunya, will be honored with many good news.

Let’s see some details of difficulties that’ll come in the way of achieving titles. A muslim should have fear of Allah and hope that his struggle ll have beautiful ending. When there is fear, he’ll be less distracted and can identify traps of his enemy, the Shaitan. One the key to success is be more focused in akhirah. It ll help to score more and more good deeds. Always remember every good deed has its weight and value. Every step should be taken with clear understanding to please Allah swt. It ll insha’Allah make you Muttaqi. On the other hand, when you’ll be tested with trials, like lack of wealth, health, fear of loss, hunger, death of loved ones, abuse of relatives/friends etc, the required behaviour is to uphold patience. If you face all or any difficulty with patience, and don’t complain in front of others, with your actions, words or gestures, glad tidings are there, alhamdulillah you have achieved the Title of the Sabir. Allah swt loves Sabireen and He is always there for them.Being patient is hard work; it does not always come naturally or easily.

Since you have achieved big badges, by maintaining them, you can easily unlock further challenges of the way. But don’t forget, life is series of moments, keep your connection strong with your Lord, the Majesty, Allah swt. We have to equipped ourselves with more potent weapons like gratitude (Shukar), excellence (Ihsan) and forgiveness (Tawba).

Shukar ll keep you humble in the bliss moments and when we realize the blessings of Allah swt, that are surrounding us from all sides. Iman is the one of the biggest blessing, that helps muslim to become momin. It makes him goal oriented and we feel that we are not born without the purpose. Next comes, how to achieve level of excellence. It leads muslim to the level of perfection in islamic faith, the difficult challenge. And just like you cannot tell if someone is a Mumin, you cannot tell if someone is a Muhsin either. And just like it is impossible to be a Mumin without first being a Muslim, likewise it is impossible to be a Muhsin without first being a Mumin. So it goes hand in hand. Level of excellence is attained by doing every act with best of your ability. Ihsan deals with the purification if inner soul (tazkiyah). So we can say, by attaining level of Ihsan, one also become Tahir. And a Tahir requires to be purified himself physically and spiritually from Rijs (impurity/filth). The temptations of the life, ego, show-off, jealousy, discontentment, disobedience increase the rijs of heart and soul. And it distract the believer (momin) from his goals, he lost his awards, good deeds and fill his bucket with that filth.

But as soon your conscious wakeup, re-built your connection with the Oft-Forgiving, Al-Ghafur, Allah swt. To receive His forgiveness, recognize your mistake, and make a promise not to repeat the offense. And do whatever needs to be done to rectify the mistakes and keep asking His forgiveness. It will entitled you as Attaw’wab. Isn’t beautiful, that every single opportunity of good, is leading towards the title? Indeed, Allah is very happy when any of His slaves repents. If he responds to the call of his Lord and repents, he will have a prosperous life in this world and the good rewards in the hereafter. If he however does not repent, Allah will punish him for his sins and He is not unjust with anyone.

Beware that every single title is connected with other, if you lose one most likely you’ll lose other, it is utmost struggle until death hit. There are set guardians over you. As soon the time of life-game is over, the book of deeds will be closed, , and angels of death ll take our soul and they never fail in their duty. [1] When the soul of a believer who is righteous and innocent is removed, it comes out of the body like a drop of water sliding off the tip of the spout of a jug. However the soul of a disobedient person fights back and refuses to leave the body. His soul is removed forcibly and comes out torn and fragmented like a piece of cloth being pulled off a thorny bush. [1]

Here big phase is completed, next part of journey explains the results depending upon the scores.

May Allah swt bless us to successfully accomplish high scores and titles so that we become worthy of Jannah tul Firdous where we live happily ever after, ameen.